News Release

Friday, July 16, 2010

Valley Sobriety Checkpoint NR10183rf

WHERE:
In LAPD’s Devonshire Division near the intersection of Reseda Boulevard and Nordhoff Street.

WHO:
LAPD Valley Traffic Division Officers

WHY:
To increase traffic and driving safety in the community by focusing on drivers who may be intoxicated. Despite the tireless efforts of thousands of advocates and law enforcement officers alike, drunk driving continues to be one of America’s deadliest crimes. Hopefully, this operation will reduce the potential incidents of injuries, death, and property damage associated with drunk drivers in the area. Officers encourage those planning gatherings with family and friends to think about how everyone will get home after drinking at these events.

From May 2 of this year through late June, the Devonshire Division has experienced a 57 percent increase in DUI-related traffic collisions. The LAPD joins law enforcement agencies across the state as part of the California DUI Crackdown Campaign. The campaign’s message is simple: If we catch you driving drunk, you will be arrested.

Funding for this checkpoint comes from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for impaired driving can be significant,” says Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety Christopher J. Murphy. “Violators often face jail time, the loss of their driver’s license, higher insurance rates, attorney’s fees, time away from work and dozens of other expenses,” says Murphy. “So don’t take the chance. Remember…if you are over the limit, you are under arrest.”
We can all help make our streets safer: Report Drunk Drivers – Call 911. Be ready to describe the vehicle, its location and the direction it was traveling.

CONTACT:
For more information, call 818-644-8000 or email 27617@lapd.lacity.org prior to the date of the event.